The purpose of a mandatory evacuation fire drill is to practice the emergency evacuation procedures as though a real fire emergency is taking place.

The building must be fully evacuated in three to five minutes.

When the fire alarm sounds, everyone in the building:

• Must never ignore or assume the alarm is false or a test
• Must turn off all equipment before evacuating, if applicable
• Must exit the building using the nearest and safest exit or stairway
• Must never use the elevators
• Must close (but not lock) all doors behind them
• Must move away from the building and not obstruct fire department access
• Must not re-enter the building until advised
  • In the event of a fire, the Fire Department has the authority over the emergency scene and would advise occupants if and when a re-entry is safe
• Should take valuables with you (e.g., purses, jackets, keys)

When the fire alarm sounds, faculty and managers:

• Are responsible for evacuating students and staff using the nearest and safest exit
• Must remind students and staff of the evacuation procedures
• Must ensure all equipment is turned off prior to evacuating the building (e.g., Bunsen burners, machines, kitchen stoves)